Movies, Memories, and Musings

What a movie to dive into hahaha. Took a few turns I did not anticipate. I am on the fence about the actors in this movie, I just have never really gotten into their humor. Just not my cup of coffee so to speak. I can see the humor of the story, and it was well done. I appreciate the character growth. Not a whole lot to say on this one. Was not my favorite, was not the worst. Not one I would likely seek out to watch again any time soon, but if it was on I would likely stay to watch. There were a couple moments that stood out, like “did we just become best friends?” and “Catalina Wine Mixers.” I also appreciated the therapist joining the family dinner at the end with the crashed boat in the tree. Beyond that there was not much really stands out as being particularly funny or something to reference later on.

I have had step-siblings once upon a time, many many years ago, but it certainly was nothing like this movie hahaha. They were all well older than me, and living outside the home. I imagine this is what it would be like for most brothers living together of any age. Having never lived with a sister, I would not know if this is something sisters go through. My brother and I though…whew that was a bit of a rollercoaster to say the least. My step-dad never gave the impression of really knowing how to navigate or handle my brother and I. I can’t imagine the upheaval going from bachelor life to suddenly responsible for two kids. It was a huge transition for all of us.

There was one moment I can relate to pretty well: what to call the step-parent? I remember being told I could NOT call my step-dad “dad” or my step-mom “mom” because I already had a mom and a dad. My step-dad got to name himself. There was a day when I just asked him what he wanted to be called, and to this day that is who he is. My step-mom just sort of… followed the pattern. I don’t think it was ever a discussion for her naming.

That said, I learned so much about unconditional support, love, respect, and care from my step-families. The unending support and the daily choice of picking someone not traditionally “theirs” was, and will continue to be, inspiring. As a kid, that was hard to accept fully. Even as an adult now, I have a hard time accepting that truth. There was a lot of push back and resistance during the teen years. And of course a few “ah ha” moments as an adult when the support and love sank in.

Oddly wholesome takeaway from a comedy movie.